Room Key launches first international sites

by Melanie Renzulli on

Room Key, the hotel booking venture backed by six leading hotel brands, announced on Wednesday that it has expanded to include hotel inventory in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Partner hotels will be searchable on the RoomKey.com website and four new country-specific sites: www.roomkey.co.uk (UK), www.roomkey.ca (Canada), www.roomkey.com.au (Australia) and www.roomkey.co.nz (New Zealand).

When RoomKey.com launched in January 2012, it included only U.S. hotel listings from its six hotelier founders: Choice Hotels International, InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Marriott International and Wyndham Hotel Group. Within two months, Room Key has developed partnerships with Best Western as well as Preferred Hotel Group and Worldhotels, two hotel companies with a roster of hundreds of independently-owned luxury hotels, resorts and residences.

Room Key’s super simple hotel search remains the same across all five of its portals. Though users can now view search results in the currency of their choice.

Photo courtesy RoomKey.com

Andaz Wall Street wants to help you with your taxes

by Melanie Renzulli on

Someone on Wall Street wants to help you. No, really. The Andaz Wall Street has announced that it wants to help its guests with their taxes – free of charge.

From April 8 through the 15, Andaz guests, many of whom are time-pressed business travelers, will be able to take advantage of the services of Mr. Marc Albaum, who will live at the New York City hotel as its Accountant in Residence. The certified public accountant with more than 20 years of experience will set up shop for one week in the Buttonwood Suite, the Andaz Wall Street’s premier guest room, which features separate areas for working and living quarters, two 42″ LCD televisions and nine-foot windows with views of the East River. Andaz Wall Street guests can reserve a free, one-hour consultation with Albaum by sending an email to accountant@andaz.com at least 72 hours prior to the desired appointment time.

While Albaum can’t prepare guests’ tax forms in full – appointments are only an hour, after all – his goal is “to ensure that his clients do not overlook credits and deductions, and receive the maximum refund they are entitled to.” Ideally, Andaz guests who meet with Albaum will aspire to book the Buttonwood Suite on future visits to Wall Street hotel. Let’s hope their refunds are equal to or greater than $3,045, the average current rate for a stay in the Buttonwood Suite.

Photo Flickr/Dave Dugdale

Find hotel deals with new booking site Guestmob

by Meg Nesterov on

The Internet has brought us many ways to research and book hotels at prices much lower than the hotels’ published rate. Aggregate sites like Kayak and Orbitz give you the best available rate (BAR) without pre-payment on a specific hotel, while “opaque” sites like Priceline and Hotwire allow you to bid for a room below BAR but the actual property remains hidden until after you book and the purchase is non-refundable. Now a new booking site offers you hotel deals well below BAR while ensuring consumers flexibility and a standard of quality.

Guestmob differs from other hotel booking sites by combining high-tech algorithmic pricing and expertly curated properties hand-picked for their high user ratings. The site works by grouping hotels into collections of four to eight properties in a given category and neighborhood. You enter your travel dates and can immediately see a room rate of up to 50% below BAR for each hotel collection. The Thursday before you check in, the exact hotel is revealed but you are guaranteed one of the specific hotels in the collection. Best of all, unlike other opaque booking sites, you can cancel your reservation up to three days before check-in.Previously, some savvy travelers have tried to “game the system” with sites like Bidding for Travel, a forum that tries to guess winning bids and participating hotels on opaque sites by sharing successful bookings. Guestmob removes the need for this research by specifying hotels in each collection and immediately offering a deeply discounted price. While room upgrades, frequent guest points and other requests are still at the discretion of the hotel upon check-in, it’s still a great option for travelers with flexibility.

A Guestmob search for a hotel in Chicago on a weekend in mid-May yielded a price of $164 for a 3.5 star hotel on Magnificent Mile (such as a Courtyard or Embassy Suites), or $203 to bump up to a 4 star in the same area such as a W or Westin Hotel. The same properties ranged from $221 to $279 on other sites. Most Guestmob hotels are part of well-known chains such as Marriott or Starwood, or smaller chains like Kimpton and JDV.

Guestmob soft-launched last year in San Francisco and has now expanded to include New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, San Diego, San Jose, Seattle, Boston, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Portland and Phoenix. The site is well connected to social media so you can get help, learn news or give feedback on Facebook, Twitter and Google+. You can also chat with them right on the site if you have questions.

Travel Smarter 2012: New hotel alternatives

by Jessica Festa on

While booking a hotel was once the standard when traveling, there are now a range of unique alternatives for every budget and preference. In 2012, it’s now possible to stay in anything from an eco-friendly tree house to a tent with more amenities than a 5-star hotel. Here are some modern takes on the classic accommodation based on traveler personality:

Luxury travelers who want to get in touch with nature

Camping no longer means you need to sleep in a vinyl bag and use the nearest tree as your personal toilet. Glamping, which takes the camping philosophy of being immersed in nature but makes it more luxurious, allows even the most high-maintenance travelers to “rough it” for a bit. For example, you can stay in an extravagant yet eco-friendly safari tent in Algarve, Portugal, that is surrounded by countryside and mountains and includes amenities like hot water, electricity, a pool, an onsite spa, a wellness center, and a garden where guests can pick and enjoy their own fresh vegetables. To view other glamping properties, you can click here for a roundup from Australia, Argentina, and India, or visit GoGlamping.net.Outdoorsy traveler who doesn’t want to get too wild

On the other hand, there may be some travelers who want to experience nature, but in a setting not too far out in the wild. For them there is garden camping, which offers the experience of camping in someone’s backyard. For example, for about $9, travelers can stay in Driftshane‘s backyard in Cornwall, England. Amenities include sea views and a neatly terraced ambiance, farm-to-table meals, and the use of the shower for an additional charge. There are also many points of interest nearby, including sailing, rowing, and beaches at Helford River, Seal Sanctuary, Glendurgan Gardens, Trebah Gardens, and Bosvathick Riding Stables. There are also ample opportunities to visit great restaurants and bars. By staying in someone’s garden, you’re still immersing yourself in the beauty of nature while also keeping yourself close to civilization. You can view more garden camping properties by clicking here.

Travelers who want a modern take on vacation rentals and apartment sublets

While checking apartment and home rental listings used to mean browsing plain text to look for a basic room or house, Airbnb brings a modern twist to the idea. First of all, owners can list their properties for free, including vibrant photos, a wealth of information, and contact data. Moreover, travelers can browse through listings while being able to search by location, price, amenities, neighborhoods, or accommodation style. They may also read reviews, look at maps, and take virtual tours. The site also has a social connections feature, which allows travelers to see which of their Facebook friends uses the site. What I personally love about Airbnb is the range of unique accommodation options, from a private room in a London lighthouse to a houseboat under the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

For Earth-concerned eco-travelers

Ecotourism is a hot topic in the travel world, and accommodations are catching on to the trend. First, there is World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF), which allows travelers to exchange working on an organic farm for room and board. Some possible experiences include harvesting grapes on a vineyard in Mendoza to beekeeping in Italy or ranch work in Poland. Moreover, hotels and hostels are also jumping on board, implementing green practices to try to help the environment while also keeping guests comfortable. For example, backpackers can enjoy the Gyreum Ecolodge in Sligo, Ireland, a partially underground hostel and Installation Incubator where travelers can come together to brainstorm new ideas. Green amenities like water heated by solar panels, a toilet linked to outside compost, and the use of a wind turbine to power geothermal heating are included, as well as comfortable beds, thick comforters, and hearty breakfasts.

For travelers who want a local experience

With travel becoming more and more social, doing a homestay is now easier than ever. One way to participate in one is to sign up to volunteer abroad with an organization like International Volunteer Headquarters or by using a forum like SE7EN. Moreover, social websites like Couchsurfing and Tripping allow users to offer their couches to travelers. What’s great about these options is that participants can read reviews on hosts and guests, and even interact before their trips begin to see if they feel comfortable staying with the person.

[flickr image via left-hand]

Want to get away for Easter weekend? These U.S. hotels are offering holiday specials

by Jessica Festa on

Are you sick of doing the same thing every year for Easter? Why not make this holiday special and do a bit of traveling? These hotels are offering packages, parties, spa discounts, egg hunts, bountiful brunches, the chance to meet the Easter Bunny and more.

Sandestin Beach Hilton
Destin, Florida

The Sandestin Beach Hilton is a family friendly resort with an array of activities, like indulging in spa treatments, swimming, shopping, fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling. From April 6-8, the property will be celebrating Easter by hosting a huge “Eggstravaganza.” Easter basket deliveries from the Easter Bunny, a coloring contest, an egg hunt and Sunday brunch will all be part of the festivities. For the adults, the Serenity by the Sea Spa is selling Easter spa baskets for mom. If you purchase a gift certificate, you’ll also be able to choose a golden egg with a prize or discount inside.

Rates vary depending on when you book. Click here for more information or call 800-559-1805. Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Bedford, Pennsylvania

Located in the Allegheny Mountain region of Pennsylvania, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort is 216-room property immersed in nature. Eight natural hot springs, hiking and biking trails, fly fishing and outdoor sports are easily accessible. This Easter, the resort is offering an “Easter Adventures in the Alleghenies” package, which includes accommodations, a chocolate bunny, an Easter egg coloring class, live entertainment, an outdoor egg hunt, crafts, a visit by the Easter Bunny, and a massive brunch held in the immaculate Colonnade Ballroom.

Package rates start at $183.50 per night based on double occupancy. Click here to book.

Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa
Lake Placid, New York

Located in the center of the Adirondacks, Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa will place you in a mixture of beautiful, mountainous surroundings and luxurious indoor experiences. Guests can enjoy a picturesque nature hike before relaxing in the heated indoor pool or indulging in a spa treatment. The resort becomes even more alluring this Easter as it is featuring an “Easter at the Inn” deal. Not only do kids stay and eat free from April 6-8, but also there will be egg coloring, an Easter egg hunt, an Easter basket scavenger hunt, and a delicious, daily breakfast.

Package rate is $315 per night for a family of up to four people. Call 518-523-2544 or click here to book.

Abbey Resort
Fontana, Wisconsin

The Abbey Resort sits on the shores of Lake Geneva and features colorful gardens and well-manicured lawns. For the upcoming holiday, they will be hosting their annual Easter weekend celebration, complete with an Easter egg hunt, holiday contests, face painting, a petting zoo, balloon animals, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and a delicious brunch and children’s buffet with complimentary mimosas for the adults.

Room rates during Easter weekend start at $139 on Friday night and $149 on Saturday night, plus tax and resort fee per night. You can also stay the entire weekend for the BOGO rate of $139 on Friday and $69.50 on Saturday. Reservations for Easter brunch required. Please call 800-709-1323 or click here to book.

The Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

A national historic landmark, The Greenbrier has been hosting guests since 1778. With this much experience in hospitality, it’s no wonder the property is throwing such a detailed Easter celebration, which they’re calling “the Greenbrier’s Holiday Hare.” Throughout the weekend, there will be a range of activities and events for people of all ages. Adults can enjoy art exhibits, wine tastings and seminars, and an adult egg hunt and roll. For the children, there is a kids’ fashion show, Easter egg hunt, dance party and an Easter puppet show. Likewise, fun for the whole family includes live music, family Jeopardy and an expansive buffet brunch. As an added bonus, the hotel is offering a $100 Resort Credit per room, per stay, and a 10% discount on select activities, tours, and classes.

Room rates during the weekend start at $430 per night based on double occupancy. Additionally, it is $20 per child sharing the room and $50 per additional adult. Call 866-976-3625 and mention promo code “EASTER” or click here.

The Langham, Boston
Boston, Massachusetts

For those who love luxurious weekends, The Langham, Boston features Italian marble bathrooms, plush bedding, an indoor heated swimming pool and the award-winning Chuan Body + Soul spa. This Easter, the hotel is making upscale travel more affordable by discounting rooms to $209 per night and offering complimentary access to Chuan Body + Soul to use the indoor pool, fitness center, sauna and whirlpool. Additionally, Café Fleuri will be hosting a special Easter Sunday brunch with a seafood station, carving and culinary station, omelets made-to-order, a kid’s selection, and more. Dine on house smoked maple cured salmon, cheese blintzes powdered with sugar, and apricot-glazed Easter ham while listening to live jazz. For the kids, face painting, caricature sketches and other Easter activities will be offered.

Brunch is $88 per adult, and $45 per child. For reservations, call 617-451-1900 extension 7125, or visit www.opentable.com. Click here to book a room.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Riverside, California

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a 238-room hotel that occupies an entire city block and has been hosting celebrities, dignitaries, and luxury travelers since 1876. While many hotels feature kid-friendly programming for Easter, this property caters to adults with their “April Celebration” package from April 6-9. On Easter Sunday, Mission Inn will host a delicious brunch, with the Easter Bunny as a special guest. The package itself includes deluxe accommodations, Champagne, an Easter-inspired cupcake for two from Casey’s Cupcakes, $125 credit to spend on either Easter brunch or spa treatments and complimentary valet parking.

Packages are $419 all inclusive. Call 951-784-0300 or click here to book.

Meadowmere Resort
Ogunquit, Maine

Located on Maine’s southern coast, Meadowmere Resort is a family-run inn and a Certified Maine Environmental Leader Hotel. Along with enjoying the Freeport Outlets, Ogunquit Beach, Perkins Cove and Marginal Way, guests of the hotel can celebrate Easter weekend to the fullest with the property’s “Easter Egg-scapes.” The getaway includes Friday and Saturday night accommodations, a wine welcome for the adults, Easter crafts for the kids, a three-course dinner, live music on Saturday night, an Easter Sunday brunch and a late checkout of 1:00 pm. There will also be an egghunt on Sunday held at the nearby Wildlife Preservation Clay Hill Farm.

Packages start at $169 per person based on double occupancy. Call 800-633-8718 or click here to book.